2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1980 Saab 900
To start off, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Saab 900 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (100 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Saab 900 weights approximately 95 kg more than 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Saab 900, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata (170 Nm) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (163 Nm). This means 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1980 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Mazda | Saab |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | 900 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1835 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2530 mm |
